What happens during a deletion mutation?

A deletion mutation involves the removal of a chromosomal segment, which can result in the loss of one or more genes from the DNA sequence. This type of mutation can significantly impact the organism because it not only alters the genomic structure but can also lead to a loss of function for the affected genes. The resulting phenotypic effects depend on the function of the deleted genes and where they are located in the genome. If critical genes are deleted, it can lead to serious genetic disorders or developmental issues. In contrast, the other options describe different types of genetic alterations, such as replication, translocation, or gene introduction, but not the specific process of removal that characterizes a deletion mutation.